Sydnee Gould takes a spin in the sidecar of John Ireland's bike, which plays music as he rides. They participated in the Denver Cruiser bicycle ride Wednesday, Sept. 7, 2011.

There, on the horizon, is a semi-coherent swarm of rainbow afro wigs, pirate hats, spandex and pink tutus. It smells of booze and bicycle grease, sweat and tears, and by the time the bike-riding blob has overtaken you, it’s too late: you’re part of a Denver Cruiser Ride.

The weekly gathering of bike/costume/beer enthusiasts will begin anew on May 16 and happen every Wednesday night through Sept. 26, and just minutes ago the organizers announced their costume themes for 2012.

There are some tried and true favorites — officially referred to as DCR Traditions — such as the Ship o’ Fools (a.k.a. pirates, sea men and nymphs, Sept. 19) and what I like to call the Ghetto Robots (bubble wrap, duct tape and cardboard, June 20). There are also some retreads of themes from previous years, like the footie-pajama-friendly Slumber Party (June 6) and rolling Super Diamond concert known as Disco night (May 30).

But frankly, I’m more excited about the new-for-2012 entries. Click below for some highlights followed by the full schedule.